Biggest Takeaways from Week 2 of the NFL Preseason
As Week 2 of the NFL preseason wraps up, we’re beginning to see glimpses of what each team might bring to the field when the regular season kicks off. From breakout performances by rookies to concerning struggles for veterans, this week has provided plenty of storylines that could shape the season ahead. Let’s dive into the biggest takeaways from Week 2 of the NFL preseason and what they might mean for your team.
Rookie QB Notes
Bo Nix: Nix is now up to 205 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions so far this preseason causing a lot of hype around the Broncos quarterback. He has been very effective at taking what the defense gives him and working well within the Broncos system. If Nix continues his strong play in week 3 of the preseason, he could open the season as the Broncos starting quarterback. One of the things we are still waiting to see from Nix is his skillset when the play breaks down.
Caleb Williams: Williams was not as impressive as his week 1 preseason performance, although he had his moments. The Mahomes like throw across his body to rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze was a special play. Besides the last few plays of that drive where Williams showcased his skillset, the Bears offense struggled. The Bears started the game not recording a first down on their first three possessions. This season will have a lot of highs and lows for Williams, but it is very clear he is already one of the most talented quarterbacks in the league.
Drake Maye: Drake Maye’s recent preseason performance was a mixed outing, marked by solid decision-making and pocket mobility, but hampered by a lack of support from his teammates. His most notable opportunity came on a third-and-8 in the second quarter, where he confidently targeted Javon Baker, who has been a standout in training camp. Unfortunately, the pass fell incomplete, as Maye’s supporting cast struggled to capitalize on his efforts.
Maye finished the game completing 6 of 11 passes for 47 yards, along with four carries for 15 yards and a touchdown. While his completion percentage was modest at 57.1%, Maye demonstrated potential as a dual-threat quarterback, even though the performance was somewhat underwhelming due to limited production from his receivers. The No. 3 overall pick continues to show promise, but the need for stronger support around him was evident in this outing.
Jayden Daniels: Jayden Daniels delivered an efficient yet conservative performance in his latest preseason game. After averaging 11.0 air yards per attempt in the previous matchup against the Jets, Daniels saw that number drop to 4.7 air yards per attempt in this outing. Despite the shorter throws, he maintained a high completion rate, going 10 of 12 for 78 yards. His quick release and arm strength were on display, allowing him to deliver the ball accurately and on time, though without the downfield explosiveness from his earlier performance. While Daniels didn’t push the ball deep, he demonstrated solid control and the ability to effectively manage the offense.
Steelers Offense
On Saturday the Steelers lost to the Buffalo Bills 9-3, where their first team offense mightily struggled. Out of every unit in the NFL, I think this group is the most concerning. New OC Arthur Smith was criticized for his bad offenses in Atlanta, and it looked like a very similar offense they employed on Saturday. The offensive line was brutal allowing Russell Wilson to be sacked three times in the 1st half of the game. Russell Wilson did not look sharp either as he went 8-10 for 47 passing yards.
Justin Fields came off the bench and looked similar to how he did last week. Holding onto the ball too long and hitting out routes that were open on his first read. The quarterback situation in Pittsburgh is not great and is something not very appealing to a disgruntled receiver out in San Francisco. The best way to describe this offense this past weekend was watching the Broncos offense last year with Arthur Smith calling plays. If the offensive line, Wilson, and Smith make adjustments fast the Steelers could be in for their first losing season under head coach Mike Tomlin.
Raiders QB Situation
Coach Antonio Pierce planned to name the Raiders’ starting quarterback after the game against the Cowboys, where Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell both had chances to stake their claim. Minshew started the game against Dallas’ reserve defense, but despite some flashes, he struggled with accuracy and made risky throws, including a 4th-and-6 miss after being kept in longer than expected. Minshew finished his day 10-21 with 95 passing yards and a 63.15 QBR.
O’Connell entered in the third quarter and showed promise, leading a scoring drive capped by a touchdown pass. However, his momentum was derailed by a pick-6, complicating the decision for Pierce as the regular season approaches. O’Connell wound up finishing his day 14-20 with 70 passing yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception. The quarterback situation in Las Vegas will be one to monitor as Gardner Minshew’s leash is very short.
Daniel Jones
Daniel Jones’ preseason performance in 2024 was a mixed bag, offering glimpses of brilliance alongside frustrating missteps. Completing 11 of 18 passes for 138 yards, Jones demonstrated his connection with key targets, especially Darren Waller, showing moments of precision and poise that hinted at the quarterback the Giants hope he can be. His ability to move the offense down the field and make tough throws kept fans engaged, as they saw flashes of the potential that made him a high pick.
However, the two interceptions marred what could have been a solid outing. One of the interceptions was particularly costly, being returned for a touchdown and shifting the momentum against the Giants. These mistakes highlighted the inconsistency that has plagued Jones in the past, leaving the fanbase and coaching staff with lingering concerns. While there were encouraging signs, Jones’ outing was a reminder that he still has room to grow and that the regular season will be the true test of whether he can finally put it all together.
Fantasy Notes
The Chiefs first team offense played two drives. In those two drives wide receiver Rashee Rice received five targets, highlighting that he will be the go-to guy for Patrick Mahomes if he is on the field this season. When C.J. Stroud has been on the field so far this preseason the snap percentages for the Texans wide receivers is Nico Collins 90%, Stefon Diggs 81%, and Tank Dell at 57% via Dave Richard. Looks very clear that Tank Dell might be the WR3 in that offense, where he will have to rely on touchdowns to be fantasy relevant. Also, in Denver it appears that Jaleel McLaughlin is the clear 3rd down running back in that offense and could be poised for a big season.
As we head into the final week of the preseason, the stakes are higher than ever. Coaches are fine-tuning their rosters, and players on the bubble are giving it their all to secure a spot on the team. The next few days will be critical for final evaluations, with the regular season just around the corner. Whether it’s a star player rounding into form, a promising rookie making a late push, or a veteran fighting to prove they still belong, Week 3 is sure to be filled with drama and decisive moments. Keep an eye out—This will be the last time we see teams before the games start counting
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